The Obliterax Operations (jan 1, 33313 – jan 1, 33340)

Description:

313.M33 - SotR begin joint operations with the Deathwatch on the world of Obliterax. It is labelled inhospitable, but foul xenos hide there.

337.M33 - During regular underground cleansings, the issue is discovered to be far larger than previously thought, posing a potential threat to nearby systems. The Inquisition request the Sons' aid in exterminating the xenos as the Deathwatch are not yet large enough to spare the manpower.

339-340.M33 - Having barely rebuilt after the 1st vengeance crusade 5 companies of SotR arrive and (alongside the Deathwatch) get to work, killing their way deep into the tunnel system over the course of several weeks. The tunnels are not suitable for larger war machines and (once fully roused) the xenos menace proves more intelligent than Inquisition data had let on.

The marines are slowly pushed backwards, until they reach a large defensible cavern, and dig in. It is discovered almost immediately that the chapter master is not amongst them, and his vox is receiving no signal. As nobody knows at what time or place he went missing, it is decided to hold position.

After 2 weeks, the Deathwatch presumes Violence dead, the Sons, however, elect to finish the campaign before appointing a new chapter master.

A further 5 weeks pass and the onslaught slows. The allies re-commence clearing the tunnel system. The xenos numbers are exhausted and the work is easier now, continuing on for over a month with minimal casualties. It is at this point that (after following a trail of bodies) 4th lieutenant Andreus Compton rediscovers the, still very much alive, Violence de Mason.

It is explained that during the retreat (after his vox was damaged) Violence became separated from his squad. He found himself alone in the tunnel presented with a choice; continue with the withdrawal and rejoin his men, or simply keep fighting deeper. He chose the latter option.

After this, the assault lasts perhaps a week more, and the xenos are entirely exterminated. A small base is established on Obliterax to monitor it and 7th lieutenant Crò joins the Deathwatch, taking command of the facility.
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